Cyclists + motorists = less space on the road

Cooler temperatures can only mean two things - a rise in population because of returning snowbirds and more cyclists out enjoying the pleasant days and evenings.

"I refer to it as Goldilocks weather; it's not too hot, it's not too cold, it's just right," said Avon Park Police Chief Matt Doughney, himself an avid bicycle rider.

With all that extra traffic, it's important for both motorists and cyclists to remember the rules of the road while sharing it.

"You've just got to look out for them (cyclists) because the weather is so nice this time of year," Doughney said.

Bob Bennett, 71, who rides his bicycle four times a week for about 160 miles, said he is impressed that majority of drivers in Highlands County treat cyclists with respect while also "recognizing our vulnerability."

"They usually pass giving us more than the legally required three feet of clearance," Bennett said via e-mail. "They usually are willing to wait to pass when it is safe to do so. They usually allow a group of cyclists to go together as a group at a four-way stop sign."

One of the biggest misconceptions people have about road rules and cyclists, according to Bennett, is traveling on the road while facing traffic.

"This is illogical and illegal for bicyclists because they move faster than pedestrians and will definitely risk being hit by motorists entering the road from a driveway or another road," Bennett said. "The motorist does not expect to have to check for moving vehicles on the wrong side of the road."

According to the League of American Bicyclists' Web site, he's right. The list of traffic principles states that cyclists must always ride with the flow of traffic, don't ride on the sidewalk and allow room to maneuver around road hazards.

Making eye contact with a driver is also important as it lets the cyclists know they have been seen.

Bennett and Doughney both agree the most important thing cyclists should remember is to always strap on a helmet, despite it not being a law.

Doughney said he wears a helmet when he's out riding the streets of Avon Park for both safety and because it sets a good example.

"Brain injuries do happen and are no joke," Bennett said.

Those looking for more rules of the road can go to www.floridabicycle.org/rules/bikelaw.html.